At the forum, Sunday’s Bicentennial Preacher, The Rev. Mark Anschutz, spoke about the challenges and changes he’s encountered as a priest. During the forum and later in his sermon he encouraged all of us to go “questing.” The quest consists of a call to be alert and stay ahead of change so that we can continue to incorporate that into our life at St. James’ and beyond. He remembered a time when women couldn’t be ordained and reminded us of the poverty and discrimination that still exists. Although St. James’ continues to stay at the forefront of change, we are each responsible for being diligent. We must continually assess our obligations and those of the church. Are they in line? Are they serving everyone?
During his sermon he encouraged us to continue on a life long quest of “labor and prayer.” We must continually work to have a Christ-centered life. We need to put our ego and pride aside to develop a loving community that is supportive and open to all. This community must embrace everyone and “encourage one another.” It is a quest on which we can’t be afraid. The Rev. Anshutz’s instructions were echoed in the Postcommunion Prayer: “...O heavenly Father, so to assist us with they grace, that we may continue in the holy fellowship and do all such good works as thou has prepared for us to walk in...”. Let us not forget the words of Mark Anschutz by remaining diligent and alert on our lifelong quest.
-Lees Patriacca
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Commentary from guest preachers, forum speakers, and others connected with celebrating the 200th anniversary of St. James' Church in Manhattan.
